The Oscar-winning actress, 66, who lives with her husband in Idaho, is writing a book, speaking at colleges and hoping to play Sheldon’s “Meemaw” on “The Big Bang Theory.” In recent years, she has made public service announcements for the Social Security Administration, directed a stage version of “The Miracle Worker” and been a guest on “Drop Dead Diva” and “Hawaii 5-O.” The native of Queens, N.Y., serves as an advocate for mental health and has lobbied Congress for further funding and research for those with mental illnesses.